Exceptional heritage
A member of the Great Sites of France network, the Dune-du-Pilat is an exceptional piece of natural heritage. From its height of 100m, it overlooks the Arcachon Bay. To the west, you’ll be best placed to admire the most beautiful sunsets in the Bay. To the east, the Landes de Gascogne Forest stretches as far as the eye can see.
A 360° view
160 steps lead to the top of the dune. The higher you go, the more you become one with nature. You can discover a grandiose forest-dune-ocean triptych. Opposite, the Banc d’Arguin Nature Reserve takes shape, the blue of the The great site of la Bay blending with the yellow of the sandbanks. You can also make out Pointe du Cap-Ferret, Bird Island and, in the distance, a few waves along the side of the passes that lead to the ocean.
Hinalys
A sensitive space
Considered the longest dune in Europe, it’s also the most fragile. Subject to winds and tides, the dune advances between 1 and 5 meters per year towards the forest. Similarly, its size varies between 100 and 155m, depending on the year and the wind.
Practical info :
Access to the dune remains free if you come on foot, by bike or Baïa bus (€1 each way). Paid parking: €6/vehicle for 4 hours.
There’s no best time of year to climb the Dune-du-Pilat, as every day, the landscapes change and offer picture-perfect panoramas. However, the steps are only installed from Easter to All Saints Day.